Thread: mystery razors (I can't find what I'm looking for)

The truth is that I do usually use a new blade for each customer. But at times I dont, and if that is the case what I do is stick the razor into my barbacide jar let it sit in between customers and wipe it down before use. again I like to use new blades each customer, but when you are busy sometimes it makes it easier to do it that way. And to be honest I dont think that many barbers do actually change the blade each time, I dont want to speak for them but from what i have seen it seems that they dont. And as far as straights go for being used on customers, I have been told so many different reasons why we cannot use them. Mainly that they can spread disease and such, but I think the reason they arent used is because of the maintenance involved with using them. It is sometimes easier to change a blade then it would be to strop/hone a razor in between every customer. At my shop we dont do many face shaves, we mainly use our shavettes for shaving around the ears and neckline. If I had the choice I would use a true straight razor, but my boss prefers we dont due to the suspicion of them spreading disease? I will look into that for you Walt because I am curious to see if that is a state to state law or just applies to every professional?

Originally Posted by barberbrett

nd as far as straights go for being used on customers, I have been told so many different reasons why we cannot use them. Mainly that they can spread disease and such, but I think the reason they arent used is because of the maintenance involved with using them. It is sometimes easier to change a blade then it would be to strop/hone a razor in between every customer.

I looked through the Florida statutes on barbering and could find no regulation that forbid the use of traditional straight razors. It seems to come down to the barber's preference. It seems to me that it would add to the ambiance/mystique of the barber shop to have a strop hanging from the chair and a barber who knew how to use it. I remember, as a kid, watching in awe as Don Alexander, my barber, gave his razor 10 or 12 leathery thwacks before shaving the back of a customer's neck. Wouldn't it be just as quick to strop a razor before use than fumbling around trying to insert an injector blade into a cheesey shavette?

regards - Walt

Each state seems to have their own statute about straight razors since the HIV became prevalent.
According to a local barber (WI) a real straight is illegal and only single use blades are allowed.
~Richard

Originally Posted by Geezer

Each state seems to have their own statute about straight razors since the HIV became prevalent.
According to a local barber (WI) a real straight is illegal and only single use blades are allowed.
~Richard

I believe it is that way in the majority of states anymore. Different world since all of the new viruses and antibiotic resistant bugs out there. CDC just reported three new ones that are killing lots of folks and no antibiotics to help. Say we are moving into the "post antibiotic age."